Wondering about the best things to do on Gili Trawangan in Indonesia? This vibrant island just off the coast of Lombok is a must-visit on your Gili Islands itinerary, with its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and tropical island vibes.
After visiting the Gilis three times, I can honestly say these islands have earned a spot on my list of all-time favourite places. There’s something magical about them, a peaceful paradise where I feel completely at home.
If you’re looking to add the Gilis to your Bali itinerary or simply want to experience more of Indonesia, Gili Trawangan is the place not to miss!
Ready to explore the best things to do on Gili Trawangan? Read my post to find out more!
How to Get to and around Gili T
Getting to Gili Trawangan from Bali
The most popular way to travel from Bali to Gili Trawangan is by fast boat. Boats depart from various points in Bali, including Padang Bai, Serangan, Sanur, and Amed. Travel times typically range from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the departure point. Some of the most reliable operators for your Bali to Gili Trawangan ferry include:
- BlueWater Express – Known for its reliability but on the pricier side
- Eka Jaya Fast Boat – A more budget-friendly option that’s widely used
- Gili Getaway – Comfortable with good service, a great option for a smooth ride
Getting to Gili Trawangan from Lombok
If you’re already in Lombok, getting to Gili Trawangan is quick and easy. Simply take a fast boat from Bangsal Harbour, and you’ll reach the island in about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can hire a private boat for more flexibility and a personalised experience.
Pro Tip: Make sure to book your Bali to Gili T fast ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. Arriving early is always a good idea, as boats can sometimes depart ahead of schedule!
Getting around the Island
Gili Trawangan has no cars or any motorised transport, making it a peaceful place to explore. The best way to get around is by bicycle, which you can rent from most accommodations and shops. Walking is also a great option, as the island is small and easy to navigate.
Horse-drawn carts (cidomos) are available, but due to animal welfare concerns, it’s best to avoid them. If your accommodation is far from the ferry port and you have heavy luggage, you may consider using one on arrival (IDR 150k per ride). Otherwise, stick to cycling or walking.
Best Things to Do on Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan is packed with fun things to do, no matter your travel style. From diving into its vibrant underwater world to exploring the island by bike or simply unwinding on the beach, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy. Let’s dive into some of the best experiences Gili T has to offer!
1. Explore the Beaches of Gili Trawangan
Picture yourself dipping your toes into powdery white sand, with the endless blue ocean stretching out before you. That’s Gili Trawangan.
Want some energy? Head to the west side where you’ll find beach bars, loungers, and a buzzing sunset scene. Craving something quieter? The north side is more laid-back, perfect for swimming or relaxing with a book.
From golden hour cocktails to quiet moments by the sea, Gili T’s beaches have you covered.
2. Snorkeling with Turtles in Gili T
Snorkeling with turtles in Gili Trawangan is one of the most magical things to do on the island; and it’s incredibly easy.
Just head to Turtle Point on the northeast side, where the water is calm and clear. No tour is needed as you can walk straight in with your snorkel gear and let the current guide you along the reef. With the high salt levels, floating feels effortless, and we spotted turtles every time we went in.
Water shoes are a good idea, as the seabed can be rocky in places. When we visited in May, we came across tiny jellyfish in the water; luckily, they didn’t sting, or maybe I was just lucky!
You’ll find snorkel sets for rent all along the beach for around IDR 50k, making it easy to head straight into the water. For a relaxed underwater adventure filled with marine life and turtle sightings, Gili Islands snorkeling is a must, and Gili T is the perfect place to begin.
3. Cycling around the Island
One of the best ways to explore Gili Trawangan is by bike. With no motorised vehicles on the island, cycling lets you move at your own pace while soaking up the views and chilled island vibe.
Renting a bicycle on Gili T is easy and affordable. It costs around IDR 50k per day through your accommodation or one of the many rental spots around the island.
We started from our hotel on the north side and cycled anticlockwise, stopping at new beach clubs, bars, and restaurants that had popped up since our last trip. It was the perfect way to discover quiet beach spots, snap great photos, and even fly the drone over the sparkling shoreline.
4. Go Island Hopping by Boat
Island hopping is one of the top things to do around Gili Trawangan and the easiest way to explore all three Gilis in one day.
Joining a Gili Islands boat tour is a great option if you want to hit the best snorkeling spots around Gili T, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. Most tours include a half-day trip with snorkeling stops at famous sites like the underwater statues and Turtle Point, plus time to enjoy each island.
Prefer to explore at your own pace? You can also hop on the local boats – either the morning slow boat or the hourly fast boat – and create your own island-hopping adventure.
We share more tips on routes, timings, and what to expect in our 7-Day Gili itinerary. However you choose to do it, cruising between the islands and diving into their crystal-clear waters is a must while you’re here.
5. Dive in Gili Islands
Gili Trawangan is a diver’s paradise, perfect for both beginners and experienced divers. If you’ve ever wanted to try scuba diving or get your PADI certification, this is the place to do it.
Well-known dive schools like Trawangan Dive and Blue Marlin Dive offer daily sessions, from fun dives to full PADI Open Water or Master Diver courses. Norman dived with Trawangan Dive and had a great experience. He did three dives and loved every moment. A single dive costs around IDR 590k, with three sessions available daily.
Keep in mind there’s a one-time Marine Park fee of IDR 100k and a Gili Eco Trust contribution of IDR 50k, both payable at the dive shop. These cover all your dives around the Gili Islands.
For more details, check out Trawangan Dive or stop by their shop to inquire about Gili dive sites and upcoming dives. With stunning dive sites around Gili Trawangan, you’re in for an unforgettable scuba diving adventure!
6. Sunset in Gili Trawangan: Enjoy with a Drink at a Beach Bar
Watching the sunset in Gili Trawangan is a must, and the island’s west coast is the best place to do it. Lined with beach bars, this area offers everything from laid-back vibes to lively sunset parties. Grab a cocktail during happy hour and soak up the views, with Bali’s Mount Agung often visible in the distance on clear days.
It’s also a dream spot for photos. Think glowing skies, ocean reflections, and those iconic swings in the water. For a relaxed setting, The Exile and Casa Vintage are great picks, with beachfront seating and good tunes. Prefer something more stylish? PinkCoco is a fun choice too. We headed to The Junction Bar & Grill near Sunset Point Gili Trawangan, ordered a drink, and watched the sun dip below the horizon. It was the perfect way to end the day.
7. Gili Trawangan Party Scene: Experience the Island’s Nightlife
Gili Trawangan is known for its nightlife, with beach bars and clubs hosting parties that go late into the night. For live music and a buzzing crowd, head to Sama Sama Reggae Bar or dance the night away at The Jungle Bar. Prefer a more stylish vibe? La Cala Beach Club serves up cocktails and sunset views with chill beats.
Looking for something different? Rabbit Jump on the sunset side has a giant pool, high diving platform, and foam parties. It’s perfect for a fun twist on island nightlife.
On our recent trip, we leaned into the slower side of Gili T nights. We loved grabbing a takeaway pizza from Regina, a couple of cold Radlers, and heading to the beach. Sitting under the stars with live music in the distance was the perfect way to wind down.
8. Open-Air Cinema Experience in Gili Trawangan
For a unique and relaxing evening, head to the Open-Air Cinema at Aston Movie Night, where you can watch a popular movie under the stars at 7 PM every night. They offer a full menu, so you can order drinks, food, and even classic movie popcorn while you enjoy the film. If you’re looking for a laid-back night, the open-air cinema Gili T is a great spot to soak in the island vibes.
9. Join a Cooking Class in Gili T
Immerse yourself in the rich flavours of Indonesian cuisine by participating in a cooking class on Gili Trawangan. Gili Cooking Classes offers hands-on experiences where you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh, local produce. Guided by English-speaking local chefs, these fun and relaxed classes are designed for all skill levels. For more details check out their website, Gili Cooking Classes.
10. Try Kayaking or Stand-up Paddleboarding in
Gili T
Exploring Gili Trawangan’s turquoise waters by stand-up paddleboard or kayak is a fun and active way to take in the island’s beauty. Paddleboarding is best in the early morning when the sea is calm, while kayaking lets you venture further, even toward Gili Meno.
Tip: Blue Paddle and SUP Gili is your go-to for paddleboards and kayaks. Stop by in person for up-to-date prices and booking info.
11. Massage and Pampering in Gili T
After a day of exploring the island, there’s no better way to unwind than with a relaxing massage. Gili T has several massage places offering a variety of treatments that cater to your need for relaxation and rejuvenation.
One of our favourite spots was The Rose Spa, where we enjoyed a soothing one-hour Balinese massage for just IDR 155k each. On our last trip, we also treated ourselves to several sessions at Azure Spa at Pesona Resort, which quickly became a go-to destination for some much-needed pampering.
Restaurants and Cafes in Gili Trawangan
Gili T is packed with vibey cafes and restaurants serving everything from local Indonesian dishes to international flavours, with plenty of vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, and meat options. Being on the coast, fresh seafood is a highlight; grilled fish BBQs in the evening are a must-try!
Our favourite places to eat on the island
- The Banyan Tree (try their banyan tree brunch option and the cinnamon swirl)
- Coffee & Thyme (great coffee)
- Wajan Sister café (we recommend chicken curry with rice and chicken satay)
- Warung Jaman Now (their crispy chicken curry with the watermelon mojito is top)
- Regina Pizzeria (the best Italian pizza!!!)
- The Junction Bar & Grill (sunset cocktails and live music)
- Gelato Factory (the best ice cream on the island)
- Trawangan Night Market (grilled fish & seafood)
- Carpe Diem – Coffee & Restaurant (delicious Western dishes)
- Kayu Café and Restaurant (amazing brunch options)
- Coco Café & Ice Cream Gili Trawangan (wide selection of iced coffees, shakes and smoothies)
Where to Stay in Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan has a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets, from budget-friendly hostels to stylish boutique hotels and luxurious beachfront resorts. Whether you’re looking for a social vibe, a romantic escape, or a quiet retreat away from the crowds, there’s something for everyone.
Budget
- My Mate’s Place (from $12/night) – Great social atmosphere, perfect for backpackers
- D’Wahana (from $30/night) – Cosy bungalows with a tropical feel (we stayed here)
Mid-range
- Belukar Villas (from $64/night) – Peaceful location, modern villas, and a great pool
- Aston Sunset Beach Resort Gili Trawangan (from $55/night) – Beachfront resort with stunning sunset views
- Flamingo Boutique Hotel (from $60/night) – Chic, colourful, and Instagram-worthy
- Pink Coco (from $66/night) – Adults-only, stylish, pink-themed resort
Luxury
- Pondok Santi Estate (from $185/night) – Secluded beachfront paradise with private bungalows
Pro Tip: Do you want a quieter stay? Pick a hotel on the north or west side of the island to escape the party scene.
Practical & Budget Travel Tips for Gili T
Here’s how to make the most of your trip without overspending:
- Best Time to Visit: Dry season runs from April to October, with sunny days and great snorkeling conditions. We visited in May and loved the ‘slightly’ less crowded beaches and perfect weather
- Getting Around: No cars or scooters, rent a bicycle for around IDR 50k a day or explore on foot (the best budget-friendly option!)
- Budget Tip: You’ll spend less here naturally: no entrance fees, minimal transport costs, and lots of free beach time
- Where to Stay: Stay near the harbour for convenience (hostel or guesthouse) or head north for peace and quiet. We loved the relaxed vibes up north
- What to Pack: Bring swimwear, light clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, and a dry bag. Off the beach, cover up with a sarong or t-shirt to respect local customs
Need more tips? Check out our Ultimate Packing Guide for everything you need! - Misc: ATMs can run out of cash so make sure to carry enough for daily expenses (*most of the places take card payments though). Tap water isn’t drinkable, so stick to bottled
- Travel Insurance: Essential if you’re diving or snorkeling. We use SafetyWing for reliable coverage. Click here to get started
- Need help with planning? Check out our Ultimate Travel Resources Guide for booking tools, tips, and apps we use
Above all, set up comprehensive travel insurance before your trip. We recommend SafetyWing Nomad Insurance for reliable coverage and peace of mind while travelling abroad. For more information and to get started, check out SafetyWing website.
Final Thoughts on Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan offers more than just stunning beaches. It’s a dreamy mix of nature, adventure, and slow island living. From diving in crystal-clear waters to snorkeling with sea turtles or enjoying sunset cocktails, there are so many amazing things to do on Gili Trawangan.
We spent a full week on Gili T, and honestly, we didn’t want to leave. The relaxed pace, island vibes, and friendly locals made it the perfect place to unwind and recharge. It’s one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left.
Still wondering if Gili T is worth visiting? The answer is, 100% yes. It’s a slice of paradise you won’t forget.
Ready to plan your island escape? Check out our other guides — 10 Things to Do in Gili Air and The 7-Day Gili Islands Itinerary — for more inspiration and travel tips!
